Marina Way: Kayaking Adventure with TV Star Gary Golding

If you’re looking for a way to see California’s coast from a fresh perspective, this kayaking tour led by TV survivalist Gary Golding could be just the ticket. It’s a one-hour paddle through some of the clearest waters you’ll ever encounter, with chances to spot secluded beaches and quiet coves away from the crowds. As someone who loves authentic experiences and practical adventures, I think this one really has something special to offer—but it’s worth knowing what to expect before you book.

What we love about this experience is its laid-back vibe combined with the chance to learn from someone who’s truly been in the wild. Plus, the views are genuinely breathtaking. On the flip side, it’s a quick trip—just an hour—and that might feel a little sparse if you’re craving a full-day outing. This tour is perfect for those who want a manageable, scenic paddle with a dash of adventure, especially if you’re curious about what it’s like to kayak with a TV personality who’s seen it all.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal scenery you won’t find in crowded spots
• Learn kayaking techniques from a seasoned survivalist and TV star
• Hear compelling stories from Gary’s wild experiences on and off-screen
• All equipment provided—just bring your sense of adventure
• Small group size ensures a more personalized experience
• Flexible timing options in the morning, afternoon, or evening

You can check availability for your dates here:

What is the Kayaking Adventure with Gary Golding all about?

This is a guided kayaking experience that takes you through California’s crystal-clear waters, revealing hidden beaches and quiet coastal coves. Led by Gary Golding, a TV survivalist and adventurer, it’s as much about the stories and tips as it is about the paddling itself. The whole experience lasts about one hour, making it easy to slot into a busy travel schedule.

The main appeal here is the chance to explore areas few visitors see—imagine paddling past untouched beaches, with no crowds around. You’ll get to enjoy the peaceful rhythm of paddling while soaking up views that are genuinely beautiful and often overlooked by mainstream travelers.

Who is this experience suited for?

This tour welcomes both beginners and seasoned kayakers. Whether you’ve never held a paddle before or are more experienced and want a relaxing outing, you’ll find value here. It’s also a great option if you’re traveling with friends or solo and want a manageable, intimate experience. Since all equipment is provided, you don’t need to worry about bringing your own gear.

If you’re interested in hearing amazing stories from the wild and getting tips from someone who’s been on screen and in the wild, this tour offers that in spades. Keep in mind, it’s just an hour long, so if you’re after a full-day adventure, this might feel a bit brief.

What makes this tour stand out?

The highlight for many is the chance to paddle through waters that are both crystal-clear and less trafficked. The secluded beaches and coves are a real treat, providing a sense of discovering your own little corner of California. Plus, having Gary Golding as a guide adds a layer of authenticity and entertainment—his stories from the wild range from hilarious to awe-inspiring.

The small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures you get plenty of individual attention and can ask questions about paddling techniques or hear more about Gary’s adventures. This personalized touch is a big plus, making it feel more like a shared adventure than a generic tour.

The experience in detail

From the moment you arrive, the vibe is relaxed. All kayaking equipment is provided, so there’s no need to worry about bringing gear or feeling out of place if you’re new to paddling. The tour typically runs in the morning, afternoon, or evening, giving you flexibility depending on your day’s plans.

Once on the water, the guide gives a quick rundown of kayaking techniques, ensuring everyone feels comfortable. Gary’s storytelling begins early, and he doesn’t hold back. You’ll hear about his adventures on screen, in the wild, and the lessons he’s learned along the way, making the paddling feel more meaningful.

As you glide through the calm waters, the views are stunning—cliffs, secret beaches, and dolphins or sea lions if you’re lucky. The peace of paddling, combined with Gary’s engaging stories, makes for a calming yet exciting experience. Most reviews mention how beautiful and peaceful the scenery is, with many saying it was a highlight of their trip.

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Practicalities and value

At $185 per person, this isn’t the cheapest activity out there, but you’re paying for quality—small groups, an experienced guide, and a memorable setting. The fact that all equipment is included makes it easier to just show up and enjoy without worrying about extra costs or gear.

The tour is quite short—just an hour—which might seem brief, but it’s enough time to get a real taste of kayaking in California’s waters and to enjoy the scenery. If you’re looking for a quick, scenic outing without a heavy commitment, it hits the mark.

What do travelers say?

From reviews, we see that stunning views are a recurring theme—many mention how peaceful and beautiful the surroundings are. Some have described the experience as “relaxing,” “beautiful,” and “a chance to connect with nature.” Others appreciate Gary’s storytelling skills, saying he’s “engaging and full of interesting tales,” which adds a lot to the experience.

A few note that the tour is suitable for beginners, and all equipment being provided is a huge plus. The limited group size makes it feel more personalized, which many loved. The main criticism is that it’s a short experience, but most agree that the quality makes up for the brevity.

To sum it up

This kayaking tour with Gary Golding offers a rare chance to explore California’s coast in a relaxed, scenic way. It’s perfect for travelers who love beautiful landscapes, enjoy storytelling, and appreciate a manageable outing that doesn’t demand all day. The small group size and expert guidance keep it personal and engaging, while the chance to paddle through quiet coves and watch for wildlife makes it a memorable experience.

While it’s not a full-day adventure and the price tag might seem high for just an hour, the inclusion of all equipment and the setting’s natural beauty add a lot to what you’re paying for. If you want a glimpse of California’s hidden coastal treasures with a charismatic guide, this tour is well worth considering.

This experience is especially suited for those wanting a gentle paddle combined with stories from someone who’s seen a lot of the wild side of life. It’s a great option for a relaxed morning or afternoon activity—one that leaves you with fantastic visuals and stories to tell.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is suitable for both beginners and seasoned kayakers. All equipment is provided, and the guide offers kayaking techniques to help everyone feel comfortable.

How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts about one hour, making it a quick but rewarding experience.

What should I bring?
You should bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, sunscreen, and water. Everything else is provided.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour available in the evening?
Yes, it’s usually available in the morning, afternoon, and evening, giving you some flexibility.

How many people are in each group?
The small group size is limited to 8 participants, which helps keep the experience personal and engaging.

What is included in the price?
Your fee includes kayaking equipment and a guided tour led by Gary Golding.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring your own if needed.

What kind of stories will Gary share?
Expect wild, interesting stories from his experiences on screen and in real-life adventures, which add a fun and educational touch to the paddle.

If the idea of paddling along California’s coast with a charismatic guide sounds appealing, this tour offers a relaxing, scenic, and story-filled way to enjoy the water. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure and an open mind—you might find yourself dreaming of your own wild adventure afterward.

You can check availability for your dates here: